BUDDING young knights and warrior princesses were transported back in time during a special event at Colchester Castle.

Over the Bank Holiday weekend the popular Castle Park attraction was transformed into a medieval encampment for the Colchester Castle Is Under Siege event.

There was something for all the family to enjoy with live demonstrations and interactive exhibits dotted across the area.

Experts from re-enactment group Historia Normannis explained what skills knights needed to go into battle, while young visitors could take in the aromas of traditional medieval cuisine and learn more about their ancestors’ food and diet.

There was also demonstrations of traditional medieval skills, such as spinning and weaving.

A spokesperson for Colchester Council said: “More than 500 children became knights, warrior princes and princesses in our magical medieval encampment, where they were able to learn first-hand about the combat skills needed to go into battle.

“The very brave ones even managed to get up close to a smoke-breathing dragon.

“The re-enactment group Historia Normannis brought to life medieval cookery, pottery, leather-working, weaving and armoury, inside their encampment, in addition to their historically accurate and dynamic arena shows.”

More than 1,600 people attended in total on Sunday and Monday.

Read more:

Darius Laws, councillor responsible for economy, business and heritage, added: “Colchester’s rich and colourful history continues to delight and inspire the generations – not least the tumultuous period of the early Middle Ages.

“It was wonderful to see so many visitors taking part in activities to mark such a pivotal era in our history.

“Being able to wander around the castle encampment, take in the aromas of traditional medieval cuisine and learn about medieval food and everyday skills, such as spinning and weaving, was truly eye-opening and really great fun.”